Background

Pollution is one of the main environmental problems currently faced globally. Be it in the air, water, or soil, the presence of harmful waste is affecting every aspect of life on Earth. Animals, plants, and humans are all suffering the consequences of irresponsible waste disposal, both industrial and domestic.

The sources of pollution are diverse, ranging from inadequate waste disposal to the emission of pollutant gases by industries and vehicles. Pollution has direct and indirect consequences on our health and well-being, affecting the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat.

Introduction

The study of pollution helps us understand how our daily actions can impact the environment around us. By understanding the different types of pollution, their causes, and consequences, we can make more informed and responsible decisions in our everyday lives.

Air pollution is generally caused by the emission of pollutant gases such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide by vehicles and industries. These gases can cause health problems like respiratory diseases and also contribute to global warming.

Water pollution is generally caused by inadequate waste disposal, whether from domestic or industrial sources. This can lead to the contamination of rivers and lakes, harming local flora and fauna and making the water unsafe for consumption.

Soil pollution, on the other hand, can occur due to the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture as well as improper waste disposal. This can lead to a loss of soil fertility and the contamination of food grown in that soil.

Sources and Recommendations

There are several reliable sources that you can consult to learn more about the subject:

• Portal of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE)
• Environmental page of the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz)
• National Water and Sanitation Agency (ANA)

We also recommend reading the book "Environmental Pollution" by Geraldo Luís Lino.

Practical Activity: "Our City's Pollution" Project

Project Objective

The purpose of this activity is to foster analysis and raise awareness about pollution in your city. Students should investigate different forms of pollution (air, water, and soil) in their area, identify their causes and consequences, and propose solutions.

Detailed Project Description

Students, divided into groups of 3 to 5, will conduct photographic surveys and analysis on the different forms of pollution present in the city. They will also conduct bibliographic research to understand the origin of pollution, its effects on human health and the environment, as well as possible solutions.

Required Materials

• Camera or camera phone
• Notebook
• Internet access for research
• Video production materials (optional)

Step-by-Step

1. Identification of Study Areas: Groups should identify different areas in their city where air, water, and soil pollution are occurring.

2. Photographic Record: Students should use photos to record indications of these forms of pollution. The photos should be accompanied by detailed descriptions of the location, type of pollution, and the group's perception of the situation.

3. Investigation and Research: Groups should investigate the main causes of the observed pollution, using reliable bibliographic sources. The impacts of this pollution on human health and the local environment should be recorded.

4. Proposed Solutions: Based on what they have learned, each group should propose solutions to minimize or solve the identified pollution problems.

5. Report Preparation: Based on the analyses, research, and proposals, groups should prepare a report containing all the elements described in the "Project Deliverables" section below.

6. Video Presentation (optional): If possible, groups can produce a video up to 10 minutes long presenting their findings and proposals.

Project Deliverables

• Report: A report should be written containing the following topics:
  1. Introduction: Provide context for the topic, its relevance and application in the real world, as well as the objective of this project.
  2. Development: A detailed description of the study areas and the pollution observed, followed by a detailed discussion of the research findings. The research methodology should be described, including how the photos were taken, what was observed, how the bibliographic research was conducted, etc.
  3. Conclusions: Summarize the main points, explain the lessons learned, the proposed solutions, and the conclusions drawn from the project.
  4. Bibliography: List all the sources used to develop the project.
• Photographs: Attach the photos taken, along with their corresponding descriptions.
• Video (optional): If you choose to do so, submit the video presentation of the project.

It is expected that by the end of this project, students will have acquired skills in research, critical analysis, cooperation, time management, and communication, in addition to becoming more aware of the impact of pollution in their region and on their lives.